Why Make This Recipe
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables, and a salad is an ideal way to celebrate the season. The Summer Strawberry Feta Salad combines the sweetness of strawberries with the creaminess of feta cheese, making it a delightful dish. This salad is not only colorful and visually appealing, but it is also packed with nutrients. The combination of greens, fresh veggies, and strawberries offers a refreshing taste that is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or simple family meals.
This dish is easy to prepare and is a great way to incorporate seasonal produce into your diet. The mixture of flavors and textures from the crunchy cucumbers to the tangy feta—creates a satisfying experience for your taste buds. Plus, the bright colors of the salad will make your table look inviting and joyous, perfect for any summer gathering.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
How to Make Summer Strawberry Feta Salad
Ingredients
To prepare a delicious Summer Strawberry Feta Salad, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound strawberries (hulled and sliced)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chopped shallot
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 8-10 ounces arugula or spinach greens (or a 50/50 mixture)
- ½ cup Italian parsley leaves (tender stems are okay) or basil leaves
- 1 cup sliced cucumber (English seedless or Persian cucumber preferred)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (sliced in half)
- ¼ cup sliced red onion
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
Directions
Make the Dressing
Start by making the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, chopped shallot, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper according to your preference.
Make the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, arugula (or spinach), Italian parsley (or basil), sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad. Gently toss everything together to ensure the greens and fruits are well coated with the dressing.
Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad before serving.
How to Serve Summer Strawberry Feta Salad
The Summer Strawberry Feta Salad can be served immediately after tossing. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you are preparing it for later, consider serving it chilled. You can plate individual servings, or place the entire bowl on the table for guests to help themselves.
For a lovely presentation, you might also consider garnishing with additional strawberries or a sprinkle of extra feta cheese. This salad makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or can be served as a light main dish on a hot summer day.
How to Store Summer Strawberry Feta Salad
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the dressing separate if you know you will have leftovers, as this helps prevent the greens from wilting. The salad can be stored for up to 2 days. However, for the best taste and texture, enjoy it within the first day.
Tips to Make Summer Strawberry Feta Salad
- Use ripe and fresh strawberries for the best flavor. They should be bright red and firm.
- Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on what you have. If you prefer a different type of green, such as spinach or kale, go for it.
- For a little crunch, consider adding some nuts or seeds, such as sliced almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds.
- If you want a little extra sweetness, increase the amount of honey or maple syrup in the dressing.
Variation
If you want to switch things up, try adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. You can also substitute the feta with goat cheese or a vegan cheese option if you prefer. Another delightful variation is to add some fresh berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, to enhance the fruity flavors of the salad.
This Easy Strawberry Feta Salad combines sweet strawberries, creamy feta cheese, and fresh ingredients for a light and refreshing dish perfect for BBQs, picnics, and summer gatherings.
Pair this vibrant salad with a colorful avocado and corn salad, serve it alongside this hearty pasta salad for a crowd, or enjoy it with this flavorful easy Italian pasta salad for the ultimate summer spread.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
While fresh strawberries are recommended for their flavor and texture, if you have no other options, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw them first and drain excess moisture.
2. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, but it is best to store the dressing separately until you are ready to eat. This will help keep the greens fresh and crisp.
3. What can I add to this salad for more protein?
You can add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even quinoa to boost the protein content of the salad.
4. How can I make this salad vegan?
Replace the honey with maple syrup and omit the feta cheese. You can use avocado or a plant-based cheese for added creaminess.
Creating a Summer Strawberry Feta Salad is a superb way to enjoy seasonal produce while offering you and your guests a beautiful and delicious dish. With its wonderful colors and flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at any summer gathering!
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PrintSummer Strawberry Feta Salad
A refreshing salad combining the sweetness of strawberries with creamy feta cheese, perfect for summer gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 pound strawberries (hulled and sliced)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chopped shallot
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 8–10 ounces arugula or spinach greens (or a 50/50 mixture)
- ½ cup Italian parsley leaves (tender stems are okay) or basil leaves
- 1 cup sliced cucumber (English seedless or Persian cucumber preferred)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (sliced in half)
- ¼ cup sliced red onion
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Start by making the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, chopped shallot, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, arugula (or spinach), Italian parsley (or basil), sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad. Gently toss everything together.
- Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top before serving.
Notes
For the best flavor, use ripe strawberries. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days, keeping the dressing separate.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
